Working in Luxembourg

Currently boasting the highest GDP per capita in the world, Luxembourg is an attractive destination for people looking to work abroad. The country’s economy is thriving, and the active and dynamic labour market is a major drawcard for expats. 

Foreigners who qualify are also afforded tax exemptions, an added bonus of working in Luxembourg. With strict labour laws in place, you're likely to enjoy a good work-life balance and high average salaries in Luxembourg.

Job market in Luxembourg

At the heart of Luxembourg’s economy are agriculture and financial services. Manufacturing and steel production are also large industries. Recently, the economy has further diversified and now boasts thriving high-tech and telecommunications sectors. 

With a low unemployment rate and a highly-skilled population, skills shortages are not common in Luxembourg. That said, if you have the right credentials, you are most likely to find vacancies in the finance, healthcare, retail, manufacturing, construction and hospitality industries. The trade, transport, telecommunications and IT sectors are also big employers, so you may have some luck here, too.

Finding a job in Luxembourg

Those with the right skills shouldn’t struggle too much to find a job in Luxembourg. Once you have acquired a residence visa and a social security number for Luxembourg, you can register with the Agency for the Development of Employment (ADEM). If you meet certain requirements, the ADEM can assist you with finding a job in the country. 

Those looking to move to Luxembourg for work who don’t meet the requirements should consider applying with local recruitment agencies. Searching online job portals and in local newspapers for vacancies is also an option, but the assistance of a recruiter could prove more fruitful.

Speaking one of the local languages (Luxembourgish, German, and French) will also be beneficial if you're looking for a job, as English is rarely spoken in business in Luxembourg. 

Useful links

• Agency for the Development of Employment
• Jobs in Luxembourg

Work culture in Luxembourg

The workplace in Luxembourg is generally formal and hierarchical. You are advised to dress conservatively and formally for work. You should also be aware that punctuality and deadlines are taken seriously, and brief business meetings are typically held to formalise decisions that have already been made.

Luxembourg has strict labour laws to protect employees, meaning most people have a good work-life balance and are paid well. The working week is 40 hours, starting at 8am or 9am and ending at 5pm or 6pm, five days a week. 

Fortunately, many companies have flexible hours, meaning employees can arrange their work hours to suit them. Full-time employees are entitled to at least 25 days of leave annually and 10 annual public holidays. If you work as a freelancer or part-time employee, your employment contract may be subject to different labour laws.